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The Mechanics of Yenagoa

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Ebinimi, star mechanic of Kalakala Street, is a man with a hapless knack for getting in and out of trouble. Some of his troubles are like his recurring entanglements in love triangles; and his unauthorised joyriding of a customer’s car which sets off a chain of dire events involving drugs, crooked politicians, and assassins. Other troubles are caused by the panorama of characters in his life, his sister and her dysfunctional domestic situation; the three other mechanics he employs; and the money-loving preacher who has all but taken over his home.The story is fast-paced with surprising twists and a captivating plot – a Dickenesque page-turner. This is Ebinimi’s story but it is about a lot more than him. It is an exploration of the dynamics between working-class people as they undertake a colourful tour of Yenagoa, one of Nigeria’s lesser-known cities, while using humour, sex, and music, as coping mechanisms for the everyday struggle.It is a modern-classic tale of small lives navigating a big city.

239 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 31, 2020

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About the author

Michael Afenfia

15 books58 followers

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5 stars
182 (24%)
4 stars
302 (40%)
3 stars
209 (27%)
2 stars
42 (5%)
1 star
17 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
Profile Image for Oyinda.
774 reviews184 followers
August 9, 2020
I have so much to say about this book! I read it in two sittings, cause I had to sleep after I started it at night, and then I picked it when I was free the next day. It was really great, but there I had qualms with the writing style and the ending (this is a spoiler free review)

This book follows Ebinimi, the main character, as he navigates life in Yenagoa as a young unmarried man who gets into one problem after another. He's flanked by his girlfriends, Adinnq and Blessing; his workshop boys, Biodun, Broderick, and Saka; his sister and her husband (in their turbulent marriage); and the pastor that has made his inherited home his church headquarters.

The story was really good and so funny! There were so many LOL moments in this story. There were other moments when I just wanted to slap Ebinimi, because he acted very foolishly so many times. There were so many things that could have been avoided if he'd just applied a bit more sense in his actions.

There were so many Southern-Nigerian infusions in this novel, and I loved that very much. The author also discussed various themes and subjects in depth, and he did a great job of tackling them.
Profile Image for Coded Reader.
44 reviews21 followers
July 8, 2020
The Mechanics of Yenagoa details the lives of a group of mechanics in Yenagoa,the capital of Bayelsa State in Nigeria to be precise.

It’s refreshing to read a story set in a city that is not the usual settings like Lagos. As the story unfolds we get to Ebinimi the star of the story which somebody translated the meaning of the name to me as Wealth is Mine @authorsname correct me if this wrong we also get to meet Saka who murders the lyrics of some popular Nigerian tunes and at times comes correct with them this detail in the book made me love it more i was laughing and singing the tunes while reading it which makes it more fun.They are also ton of other characters which made the book more flavorful.

I really loved the way the author writes,he knows how to write a good suspense,making it a page turner that you immediately want to know what happens next,it’s a descriptive,lyrically well written story.

You can tell from the songs referenced in the book that it’s heavily influenced by Afrobeats which made me fall in love with it more;it also on focuses themes such as drug addiction,cultism,family,sisterhood.

Overall it’s a feel good read,the author left no loose ends,it is well put together,an engaging and funny read love it.
Profile Image for Folio Review.
53 reviews4 followers
August 11, 2020
The Mechanics of Yenagoa is like a Pandora’s box with unending gifts. It is book candy, one that is sweet to look at, and sweet to chew on. The latest Afenfia book is like a smooth blend of Irish Cream with a tang of American Honey; better still it is the world’s sweetest palmwine mixed with a bit of ogoro.

Okay, lol, I think I’m about done with the poetic. Let’s get into the review proper.

Michael Afenfia has done a great thing with this book; taking us into the minds of the average Nigerian while explaining the reasons for their vices. Reading The Mechanics of Yenagoa is like reading a manual of what it’s like to be really Nigerian.

I particularly like the fact that the book is set in a less talked about region of Nigeria, Yenagoa – a city in the South-South.

One would normally hear that the Niger Deltais an oil rich nation with starving indigenes; or that the NDDC is no longer guardian of the Niger Delta people but a predator that syphons money meant for development. However, Afenfia shows a different side of the region, one that is rarely seen by the public.

Enters Ebinimi and his cohorts of friends, family and frenemies. Oh, and the bevy of women he strings along, due to his phobia towards commitment. This phobia probably stems from the fact that his sister’s (Ebiakpo) marriage is a poor example, or because he studies for his masters degree while working as a fulltime mechanic.

Either way, Ebinimi is a flighty bird who embroils himself in misadventures, often leading to disaster. Broderick, Biodun and Saka are his employees turned family, and his love for them, and everyone else around him often leads to wrong decisions on his part.

The Mechanics of Yenagoa is chuck full of surprises, from the first page to the last. The book sucks you in like a vacuum, taking you through twists and turns that competes with the best Sidney Sheldonbook. Keeping you intrigued with bated breath, it’ll always have you asking “Wow, did that really happen? What next?”

There are so many things to compliment about this book, but foremost in my mind is the fact that it’s the first book I’ve read that’s written in Nigerian Pidgin, well written at that.

Usually, when I read through people’s attempt to write Pidgin I always end up laughing or get irritated by the poor execution.

Many a time, I’ve tried to read the news stories on BBC Pidgin, and just couldn’t get through any of their articles because some of the flowery English words don’t fit with pidgin. I do believe that BBC Pidgin should take a leaf off Michael Afenfia’s pages to get the right idea of how to write proper Nigerian Pidgin, and still retain your readers.

The fact that most of the dialogue in Afenfia’s book is written in Pidgin, makes it more authentic. Because, truly, Pidgin is the lingua franca of the South-South, and I’m glad the author stayed true to his roots.

Also commendable, are the indigenous names of most characters, such as; Ebiakpo, Ebizimor, Oputi, Adinna, Aguero and more.

Every page of The Mechanics of Yenagoa is rid with humour, and witty banter; from the bastardized lyrics sung by Saka (which leads him to success), the veiled threats made by Ebibimi’s business associates, the relationship games played by every character, to the antics of religion.

Michael Afenfia successfully weaves an interesting web, knitting together the vices of society. His writing addresses cultism, political espionage, injustice, crime, bribery, infertility, adultery, religion, blackmail, and so much more.

I have so many favorite parts in the book, in fact the entire book has become an all-time favorite. Reading the book brought a lot of movies to mind, I remember thinking of Charlie’s Angels, Omo Ghetto, and Sunday Dagboru when I came across the scene where Ebinimi was threatened by Tiekuro and his female bodyguards.

I also couldn’t help thinking of the lyrics of Falz’ song, This is Nigeria, while reading through the book. “This is Nigeria, look how we living now. Everybody be criminal,” is a perfect explanation of what The Mechanics of Yenagoa is really about.

The end of the book left me speechless, and had my mind giving me snapshots of how I felt when Okonkwo killed his son in Things Fall Apart, or when Jaja took the fall for his mother in Purple Hibiscus.

Editorially, the book is faultless – except for a few forgiveable typos. The storyline is splendid. The setting and tone, even more so. As for the book cover art? Anderson Ofuzim Oriahi did a great job! And Masobe Books did a better one by showing us that Nigerians continue to deliver great works of literature and art!

Oh, by the way, I would really like to see The Mechanics of Yenagoa on the screens.If ever my wish comes true, then the prospective production team should consider my cast suggestions below:

Ebinimi – AY Makun
Ebiakpo – Mercy Aigbe
Saka – Kenny Blaq
Biodun – Bovi Ugboma
Broderick – Funny Bone
Aguero – Mike Ezuruonye
Blessing – Funke Akindele
Agnes – Mercy Johnson
Reverend Ebizimor – Odunlade Adekoya
Tiekuro – Gabriel Afolayan
Oyintari (Sucking Blood) – Eniola Badmus
Adinna – Ini Edo
Hon. Aaron Barnabas-Treatment – Kelvin Ikeduba
Mr Freedom – Bolaji Amusan (Mr Latin)
Benson – Nkem Owoh (Osoufia) 
Then appearance by Teni Apata as one of Tiekuro’s lady guard.

Would I recommend The Mechanics of Yenagoa to anyone? Of course! It is that superb. Meanwhile, I’d be praying that a movie adaptation is announced soon while y’all reading. Or should we expect a sequel?
76 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2023
Nigerian authors have this horrible habit of writing an amazing book and then giving it such a shitty ending. The book was so good, but the end was so unnecessary. I understand the concept of a twist or a suspenseful ending, but at the same time, the book can end well. It can end happily with all the characters present.
The book was good. The characters were likeable. The writing style was perfection. It had such potential to be a five-star read, but the end messed it up. If you are looking for a humorous book that will have you hooked from the first word but will eventually disappoint you, this book is absolutely perfect for you. I recommend.
Profile Image for Toluwa.
178 reviews5 followers
April 15, 2023
This book was very chaotic and I liked it because that’s not what I expected at all. Ebinimi, the protagonist, was a ‘character’ and I found myself wanting to give him a knock, several times.
Also, it was nice to read and learn about Bayelsa.
I thought the editing was a little shabby but it’s not shabby enough to put any one off entirely.
If you’re looking for a light read, I recommend this.
Profile Image for Ginika.
32 reviews
September 30, 2024
Unrealistic dialogue, cluttered with trivial details that were irrelevant to the plot. This book started out great and promising but devolved into bland literature.
Profile Image for Frances.
161 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2023
5 stars, for drawing me in and keeping me glued! It's been a while since I read a book in less than 3 days. I was not ready for that ending though.
Profile Image for Simisola.
216 reviews7 followers
September 27, 2023
3.5 stars.

First comment I must make is how much I love the cover. It always made want to pick it up.

I enjoyed it very much and I laughed out loud many times from all the ridiculousness. I liked that Mr Afenfia wrote a book for and about the average Nigerian and I commend him for that.

It’s filled with very dramatic twists and turns and feels like an OG Nollywood film in its most concentrated form. It also manages to consciously make social commentary while not taking itself too seriously.

Most of it is in Nigerian Pidgin and I can see how non-Nigerians may not get into it as easily as I doubt they are the target audience, but I’m not really mad at that. It is also a story about a part of the country we don’t really get many stories from and that was lovely.

The author is a pretty good storyteller as he was able to seamlessly transition from one drama to another and there was A LOT of drama and I can't even say you have to suspend disbelief for the level of drama because this being Nigeria, all the things the MC went through are plausible.
Profile Image for Auggie.
91 reviews1 follower
April 28, 2024
I highly recommend this book! It's set in Bayelsa, a state in the southern part of Nigeria, and tells the story of Ebinimi, a skilled mechanic who lives in Yenagoa, the state capital. Despite having two girlfriends, he is unmarried, greedy, and a bit foolish.

The book is fast-paced and hilarious, and I found it very relatable, especially when the author mentioned places like Jabi Park, Transcorp, and other parts of Yenagoa that I remembered from my visits. It was exciting to read about them in the book.

If you're looking for a light and fast-paced book by a Nigerian author, I highly recommend this one. It's a great read, and I think it could help get you out of a reading slump if you're going through one. I'm looking forward to reading more books by this author.
7 reviews
January 12, 2024
The book wasn't bad, there were alot of plot twists in my opinion but I definitely was not expecting the ending. I'm giving this a three because I didn't really enjoy the book at the beginning and some of the characters just annoyed the shit out of me but all in all it's not a bad book and it's worth the read.
Profile Image for Shelah.
284 reviews6 followers
September 21, 2021
All I'm just going to say is that Ebinimi is a whole mess. If he didn't talk too much and had gotten rid of Blessing instead of allowing the thing between his legs rule him, he'll would have been fine.
Profile Image for Mr Leo.
8 reviews1 follower
August 13, 2020
Religion
Politics
Love and Lust
Greed and vengeance
All intertwined in this master piece...
Had to believe this is actually fiction
Profile Image for Gracie Wandyte.
492 reviews5 followers
May 29, 2024
4.5🌟

Ebinimi enh!!! I thought he had finished suffering then he said…
“…that popular saying, when it rains it pours. That was the exact position I found myself. You're thinking, is it not, Ebinimi again? What kind of trouble can he possibly have found himself in that we haven't seen already?' Well, this one was different.”
…I just couldn’t stop laughing 🤣 because Omo!

I love how funny, dramatic and chaotic the characters were.
Me I knew that pastor Ebizimor was up to something.

I was ready to give it 5🌟 but that end wasn’t even funny at all 😒.
Profile Image for Bukola Akinyemi.
307 reviews29 followers
December 24, 2020
Love the cover of this book and the detail at the top of the page where each new chapter begins.

The writing stlye is very clever, characters well developed and plot engaging. Michael Afenfia had me laughing out loud all through the book.
Profile Image for Meme.
165 reviews2 followers
March 20, 2025
This book was such a stupid book in a funny way like I laughed and laughed and laughed, because there is no way someone sat down and wrote this book. Ebj
Like he likes not to be called caused his own problem. Women women women. At the end of the day he should have expected it. That ending tho
Profile Image for becca..
173 reviews12 followers
December 10, 2022
The main character of this book was a hot mess and the whole story was such a wild but fun ride. Totally enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Faith.
486 reviews18 followers
January 8, 2023
A hilarious read with unexpected moments. That ending though...still unsure how I feel about that.
34 reviews
November 9, 2025
This was so chaotic and I couldn’t put it down. I don’t even have the words.
Profile Image for Abigail Anoko Amodu.
5 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2024
For every one of my friends that I told about this book, I said it was such a nice read. This book drew me in and kept me going with its short chapters, easy-to-understand writing style, humor, and drama. I believe it’s a portrait of the crazy things that happen in Nigeria. I genuinely enjoyed reading this book. Michael Afenfia did a great job with this one. I could definitely live without the ending, and Ebinimi needs to cool down with his horrible decisions, but this book wouldn’t have been what it is for me without every single thing that made it what it is, and I’m happy about that.
Profile Image for Nelly.
170 reviews3 followers
October 19, 2022
The plot is very engaging. Beautiful story telling, the characters' foolishness was very hilarious. An enjoyable read!
Profile Image for Uchenna (favourite_igbo_boy).
132 reviews24 followers
October 7, 2020
The Mechanics of Yenagoa is a read that primarily takes on the story of the lives of four Mechanics, living in the capital of Bayelsa.⁣
[Keeping it as spoilers as possible].⁣

This book to me, was a light and interesting read. It happens to be my first time also, reading a book centred in the South South part of Nigeria, Yenagoa precisely since I've read books base in Port Harcourt, which happens to be among the same geopolitical zone.⁣

The various theme from love, friendship, family, drugs, religion, secrets, betrayal, music, erectile dysfunction, money, politics, social media, dreams/aspiration and more.⁣

I loved how the author was able to bring the city of Yenagoa to spotlight, making it come alive vividly.⁣

The different characters were interesting and distinguishable in their own various way. All had something to offer and in turn, it made the story filled with dramas that you just can't help but wonder, while you on leash various emotions, most especially laughter.⁣
Amazingly with all this, the book was easy and light for me. Keeps you going because you just can't wait to know what's next.⁣

Ebinimi which happens to be the primary character, was annoying to me considering the decisions he took. Guess, I kinda expected more from him due to he was educated. Felt he would apply sense well.⁣


PS: I'm 100% guilty of the way Saka sings when it comes to 9ja songs 🙈.⁣
Profile Image for Amaka Azie.
Author 28 books232 followers
June 30, 2023
This book was HILARIOUS!!!
I loved every minute of reading this.
I laughed out several times.
Even in public.
This story follows the life of a mechanic named Ebinimi with a shop on Kalakala road Yenogoa. I loved the camaraderie amongst the workers in the car repair shop.
Saka, Biodun and Broderick were hilarious.
Especially Saka singing!!!
Ebinimi's escapades with his girlfriends and the budding love story... the fake pastor.
Everything about this book tickled my fancy.
Want a funny, light read for escapism- this book is for you!
A well deserved 5 star read for me.
New writer crush!!!
Profile Image for Adebola.
57 reviews
February 11, 2025
My biggest issue was that it felt all over the place so many plot points happened some more interesting than others but they didn’t feel like they were connected. Something happens then another thing happens then another but I felt like there was a lack of cohesiveness in the overall story. I feel like I read five books in one an they have nothing to do with each other apart from the fact the characters name are the same
Profile Image for Tobi Are.
26 reviews5 followers
March 26, 2022
The grammatical errors were really distracting (don't know how the publishers didn't see that), but it was an okay story. Didn't like the way it ended, also. However, if you're looking for a very light read, you could pick this up.
Profile Image for Aneesa Idrees.
29 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2021
Great plot, strong dialogues. I wasn't particularly impressed by the prose.
But a worthy read
Profile Image for Aseye.
11 reviews4 followers
December 29, 2023
This was a fun read, simple, witty and humorous.
Profile Image for Firdaws.
101 reviews3 followers
January 14, 2024
When I think ebinimi, I think unfortunate. Every chapter is him moving from one bad decision to another. It's a really short and interesting read. Never a boring moment.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews

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